Maintenance Group welcomes new commander

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Air National Guard’s 155th Air Refueling Wing Maintenance Group welcomed a new commander Oct. 13, at the Nebraska National Guard Base in Lincoln, Neb.

Col. Barbra Buls assumed command of the unit in front of distinguished guests, friends, family and the 155th Maintenance Group formation.

“I assume command of this group with great respect and admiration, and full confidence in the men and women of our Maintenance Group,” said Buls.

Buls enlisted in the South Dakota Air National Guard in 1986, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. She received her commission in 1992 and became a maintenance officer for the 114th Fighter Wing Maintenance Squadron. From 1999-2006, she transferred to the NEANG 155th Maintenance Squadron. While serving in Nebraska, she became the Vice President of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska and assumed command of the 155th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron until 2009.

After being accepted to the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, National Defense University, Washington, D.C., she moved to the East Coast with her family. While there, Buls served in several positions at the National Guard Bureau and became the NGB director of Human Resources.

Col. Keith Schell, the former commander of the 155th Maintenance Group, now commander of the 155th ARW said Buls is a dedicated worker with a spark to get things done.

“You’ve done everything asked of you and at all times far exceeded expectations,” said Schell.

Schell reflected on the Maintenance Group’s success, reliability and willingness to step up to finish any task.

“Six and a half years ago, I was selected to be your commander,” said Schell. “When I came over here, I had the thought in my head that you were the best maintenance group in the ANG and in the Air Force. When I left three months ago, I knew you were the best maintenance group. You guys do a terrific job.”

After Buls assumed command, she highlighted the knowledge, professionalism and work ethic of the maintainers in the NEANG.

“Our ‘traditionals’ are a very important part of our team,” said Buls. “We rely upon you now more than ever as our tempo of operations has increased. You have risen to the challenge, but it is not without the expertise in our full-time force and their dedication to ensuring that you are ready, willing and able to meet those challenges.”

“As a maintenance officer, I know our mission, but even more importantly, I know our people.”